January 18, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; Green Bay Packers defensive end Mike Daniels (76) reacts following the 28-22 loss against the Seattle Seahawks in the NFC Championship game at CenturyLink Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports
The dust has begun to settle from the Green Bay Packers’ shocking loss OT loss to the Seattle Seahawks in the NFC Championship, leaving them to stare ahead at a long, gruelling offseason. While the Green Bay Packers have a roster constructed for continued trips to the playoffs, they have several decisions to make this offseason that could determine just how far they are able to go.
Green Bay finished the regular season at 12-4, winning the NFC North and earning a first-round bye in the playoffs. The offense was among the league’s best, with QB Aaron Rodgers stating a strong case for the league’s MVP award by throwing for 4,381 yards with 38 TD and just 5 INT. Jordy Nelson and Randall Cobb both had career years at wide receiver while Eddie Lacy topped 1,100 yards for the second straight season.
The offensive line grew into one of the best in football along the way, but following their early exit from the playoffs, that now matters very little. The clock has been wound back to zero. Two of Green Bay’s most important offensive players, Cobb and RT Bryan Bulaga, are free agents this offseason and will surely be the team’s top priorities.
CB Tramon Williams‘ contract situation will be one to keep an eye on, as well. Improving the defense will be pivotal heading into 2015, along with developing the plethora of young talent already in the fold.
It may be some time until fans of the Green Bay Packers are able to move past the loss to Seattle. It still doesn’t fully make sense in many ways. When you’re ready, though, here is a look at the 10 most important Packers’ storylines to follow through this offseason.
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